Moving to Canada as a permanent resident involves several crucial steps upon arrival. This guide outlines the essential actions to take regarding healthcare, social insurance, and employment.
**Health Insurance Card:**
One of your first priorities should be applying for health insurance cards for each family member. Applications are readily available at various locations, including doctor’s offices and pharmacies. These cards grant access to the Canadian healthcare system, covering a range of services:
* Physician and specialist consultations and treatments
* Many surgical procedures
* Hospitalization
* X-rays and laboratory tests
* Vaccinations
These services are provided without direct cost, funded by the taxes paid by working Canadian permanent residents.
While most provinces offer immediate medical coverage upon application, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and British Columbia impose a three-month waiting period. During this interim, private companies offer short-term health insurance options.
Furthermore, explore potential employer-provided health benefits, which often include coverage for prescription drugs and dental care.
**Social Insurance Number (SIN):**
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is mandatory before commencing employment in Canada. This nine-digit number enables access to social benefits and ensures proper tax contributions.
Apply for a SIN at a local Human Resources and Skills Development (HRSD) office. Bring your Permanent Resident card as proof of identity and residency status. While there used to be a fee for application, SINs are now issued free of charge. Processing times can vary, but you can begin working before receiving the physical card by providing your employer with proof of application.
**Employment:**
Initiating a job search is typically a high priority. While securing employment before obtaining permanent resident status is possible, many newcomers arrive unemployed.
Certain professions in Canada are regulated, requiring specific permissions. These fields include medicine, law, and education. Contact the relevant regulatory body in the province where you intend to work to have your credentials assessed and determine any further requirements.
Trades like carpentry and plumbing are also often regulated. Ensure you possess the necessary licensing before seeking employment in these areas. Certain trades are designated as Red Seal Trades, meaning that they have standardized regulations across all provinces. If you hold a Red Seal certification, it is generally recognized across Canada.
Fortunately, the majority of jobs in Canada are non-regulated. You can begin your job search immediately upon arrival.
Utilize the Job Bank service, an online platform where you can create employee profiles visible to potential employers and browse job postings across Canada. Provincial daily newspapers also feature job listings.